Signal Generator Calibration System Using Internal Taps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current calibration methods for signal generator devices are manual, time-consuming, and costly, leading to potential downtime and unreliable measurement results due to unintentional deviations in signal characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system comprising a signal generator, calibration receivers, and a processing module that uses taps in the signal path to gather measurement results and analyze performance characteristics, enabling active control and predictive maintenance of the signal generator device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual calibration is performed periodically, then measurement reliability is maintained, but time consumption and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The signal generator device performs calibration automatically using its own internal resources (signal generation capability, processing module) without requiring external manual intervention. The device generates test signals, receives measurement results from calibration receivers, and processes data to determine calibration status autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where measurement results from calibration receivers are continuously fed back to the processing module, which analyzes the results and determines whether calibration is needed. This enables automatic recalibration based on actual performance degradation rather than fixed schedules
2Reliability
If manual calibration is performed, then signal generator accuracy is maintained, but operational costs increase due to required personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The signal generator device performs calibration automatically using its own internal resources (signal generation capability, processing module) without requiring external manual intervention. The device generates test signals, receives measurement results from calibration receivers, and processes data to determine calibration status autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual calibration process with an automated electronic system. The processing module automatically generates test signals, processes measurement results from calibration receivers, and determines calibration status, eliminating the need for manual operators and mechanical calibration tools
3Productivity
If calibration interval is extended to reduce downtime, then productivity increases, but measurement reliability decreases due to unintentional deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration interval is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system continuously monitors signal characteristics and automatically triggers calibration only when deviations exceed predefined thresholds or when analysis results indicate calibration is needed, adapting the calibration timing to actual device performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where measurement results from calibration receivers are continuously fed back to the processing module, which analyzes the results and determines whether calibration is needed. This enables automatic recalibration based on actual performance degradation rather than fixed schedules
4Measurement precision
If multiple calibration receivers are used to monitor different signal paths, then calibration accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration receiver is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can measure multiple signal characteristics (amplitude, frequency, phase) across different signal paths. The processing module handles multiple data streams from multiple calibration receivers, analyzing results to determine calibration status for various components including amplifiers, modulators, and mixers
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration system including a signal generator device, at least one calibration receiver and a processing circuit is described. The signal generator device has a signal generation circuit configured to generate a signal, at least one signal path terminating at a signal output port of the signal generator device, and at least one tap provided in the signal path. The at least one calibration receiver is connected with the at least one tap in the signal path. The at least one calibration receiver is connected with the processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured to receive measurement results obtained by the at least one calibration receiver and to analyze the measurement results received, thereby determining analysis results.